Reading a contract efficiently means reading it in the order that reveals risk rather than in the order it was drafted.
Definitions first. They control everything, and the substantive negotiation often hides there. A defined term used in a limitation clause can be worth more than the clause.
Term and termination. How long, how it renews, who can end it, on what notice, and what survives.
The obligations. What each side must actually do, to what standard, by when. Look for efforts standards, discretion, and conditions.
Money. Price, adjustment mechanics, payment terms, interest, set-off rights, and taxes.
Risk allocation. Warranties and disclaimers, indemnities, limitation of liability with its carve-outs, insurance requirements, and force majeure. These four provisions together determine the worst case.
Change and transfer. Amendment, assignment, change of control, and subcontracting.
Dispute resolution. Governing law, forum, arbitration, escalation steps, fee shifting, and limitation periods shortened by agreement.
The schedules. Frequently where the commercial substance actually lives, and frequently unread.
Then read it again as a performance manual, asking who in the business will have to do each thing and whether they know it.